Holiday hell for Aussie grandma in China

A Melbourne grandmother is experiencing a holiday nightmare after contracting the deadly virus that caused a pandemic in Australia in 2009. 

Kerri Cosma, 58, is in an induced coma in a Nanjing hospital after contracting deadly swine flu.

Her husband Sam Cosma said she contracted H1N1 influenza virus after arriving in China on April 13.

“She deteriorated quickly and after suffering from Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome was admitted to hospital Friday week ago and subsequently was placed in an induced coma and put on life support at 2am on Sunday, 23rd April,” Mr Cosma said.

“Kerri remains in the ICU on life support at a hospital here in Nanjing.” 

While Kerri’s condition is very serious, her husband says she’s receiving the best care possible and is currently doing very well. 

A Go Fund Me page set up by Mr Cosma states their travel insurance is covering medical costs and accommodation as they do not know when Kerri will be stable enough to fly home to Melbourne.

Swine flu symptoms appear similar to that of a common flu and include fever, cough, body aches, chills, runny nose, sore throat and respiratory distress. 

There are anti-viral medicines available that can lessen the afflicted’s symptoms if taken early. 

There is also a vaccination against swine flu and Australian Government Department of Health says that to-date, the seasonal influenza vaccines appear to be effective against the virus strains getting around.

Swine flu’s severity differs from person to person and range from mild cases to severe. If you do get sick and notice your condition worsening, see a medical professional. 

Always ask your GP for health advice before travelling. 

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